Former Philippine President Duterte En Route to ICC Following Arrest

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s flight to the International Criminal Court in Rotterdam has taken off after delays. His arrest marks a pivotal moment in the ICC’s investigation into his controversial anti-drug campaign. Protests occurred outside the court, with preparations from his legal team and family for further legal actions.

A plane carrying former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has departed for the International Criminal Court (ICC) in Rotterdam, following delays due to layovers in Dubai. This marks a significant advancement in the ICC’s examination of allegations regarding crimes against humanity linked to Duterte’s anti-drug campaign that resulted in numerous fatalities and worldwide condemnation.

Duterte’s arrival at Rotterdam airport is now expected around 1625 GMT, delayed from an initial estimated landing time of 0600 GMT. An anonymous ICC source confirmed that the plane had taken off after complications during the previous layover.

In The Hague, approximately 20 anti-Duterte protesters assembled outside the court, brandishing banners and a mask portraying him as a vampire. During the layover, Duterte reportedly received medical attention, with Philippine broadcaster ABS-CBN capturing imagery of medical personnel assessing him aboard the aircraft, which was described by officials as routine.

Sara Duterte, the Vice President of the Philippines and Duterte’s daughter, has flown to Amsterdam, though her intentions and length of stay remain undisclosed. The ICC has refrained from commenting on the situation, and inquiries sent to Duterte’s legal representatives and officials in Dubai have not yielded responses.

At a Tuesday press conference, Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr stated that the flight carrying Duterte was en route to The Hague, allowing him to confront charges related to his controversial anti-drug policies. This campaign was central to Duterte’s election, during which 6,200 suspects were officially recorded as having been killed in police operations, although activists argue the actual number is significantly higher.

Silvestre Bello, one of Duterte’s attorneys, indicated that the legal team would convene to explore their options and ascertain access to the former president. Additionally, Veronica, Duterte’s youngest daughter, plans to pursue a habeas corpus petition with the Philippine Supreme Court to compel the government to return him to the Philippines.

The article highlights the significant events surrounding former President Rodrigo Duterte’s transport to the International Criminal Court, emphasizing the implications of his expected trial for alleged crimes against humanity. The situation is compounded by local and international reactions, including protests and legal actions initiated by family members. As Duterte becomes a focal point in international criminal justice, the ramifications of his anti-drug campaign continue to spark controversy and demand scrutiny.

Original Source: gazette.com